Prime Minister Gaston Browne co-chaired the second in-person high-level meeting of the Pacific Island Country Summit organized by the Local2030 Islands Network during the 77th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 77).
Palau Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Gustav N. Aitaro, and Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry also co-hosted the event, opening the meeting by outlining a shared vision for the Network to be a forum for candid dialogue and concrete action by its members to advance progress and island leadership on shared 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Prime Minister Browne, Minister Aitaro, and Secretary Kerry were joined at the in-person gathering by Leaders, Ministers, and other senior officials from Local2030 member islands, including the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Ireland, Aruba, and Hawai, as well as observers to the meeting, including Australia, Bahamas, Belize, and Sint Maarten.
Local2030 Islands Network partners, including the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), Secretary of the Navy, UN Foundation, and the University of Guam were also in attendance. The meeting was moderated by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, Monica Medina.
Since the first in-person meeting at the Our Ocean Conference in Palau in April 2022, the Network welcomed the membership of Guinea-Bissau and Aruba.
The Local2030 Islands Network has also begun preparations for the in-person Communities of Practice to bolster inter-island dialogue and knowledge sharing on unique development challenges and opportunities across three thematic communities, for which the United States announced an additional $1.3 million in support.
Additionally, Palau noted its progress on the creation of its SDG Dashboard, modeled after dashboards in Hawai and Guam.
Throughout their remarks, island members noted the challenges caused by the triple crises of COVID-19, climate change, and the conflict in Ukraine.
They spoke to the rising costs of living on islands due to inflation and increased fuel costs for transport, energy, and imports.
They also highlighted the increased devastation that climate-related impacts resulting in loss and damage are having on their islands and the threat that they pose to the longevity and prosperity of islands.
Leaders also articulated that their national debt burden is directly linked to disaster recovery efforts.
To address these concerns, island members called for concrete action amongst themselves and partner governments and organizations. Calls for action included: developing partnerships with universities to build capacity; shifting to renewable energy, and electric vehicles, and pursuing alternatives to traditional debt repayment.
Many members stressed the urgent need for substantially increased climate finance to help bridge the gap between ambition and implementation, as well as improved climate financing instruments, such as debt-for-nature swaps and ocean carbon capture.
Members also voiced the need to identify short- and medium-term actions; the long-term may be too late for islands, many of which are directly threatened by sea-level rise. Members called for major economies to reduce their carbon footprints.
The U.S. noted that the PREPARE Initiative is one avenue to address the impacts of climate change disproportionately impacting vulnerable communities.
Members emphasized the value of the three Local2030 Islands Network Communities of Practice on Clean Energy Systems, Sustainable and Regenerative Tourism, and Data for Climate Resilience, noting that the platforms are critical for peer learning and knowledge exchange.
Members noted indicators of progress on global climate action will be determined in what comes forth in the weeks leading up to and the outcome of COP 27 in Egypt and echoed the importance of global leaders leaving the COP with raised ambition and a clear path forward.
The Local2030 Islands Network champions this vision and island leadership for shared goals and the actualization of Agenda 2030.
The Network serves as a forum for island economies at all jurisdictional levels to learn from one another and bring island experiences to the forefront of sustainable development conversations. In the coming months, the Local2030 Islands Network will continue the expansion of island membership within the Network and convene the first in-person meeting of the Communities of Practice.
The third Local2030 Islands Network Leaders Meeting will be held during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly.


Wage garnishment can have a significant impact on a business, and it can cause employees considerable anxiety. This anxiety can manifest in reduced productivity and a lack of motivation. However, there are several ways employers can support their employees and help prevent future garnishments. These options include financial wellness training, tax education, and counseling. Additionally, there are many implications for the business itself, including reduced profitability and overall business efficiency.
The maximum amount of wages that can be garnished
The Consumer Credit Protection Act limits a creditor’s right to take your wages if you don’t pay your debts. This law limits a creditor’s right to take your wages if you don’t pay your debts. This limit varies by state. You might be curious about
what is wage garnishment or how much of your money might be taken. Generally, no more than 50% of your disposable income can be deducted.
However, the maximum wage that can be garnished sometimes is higher. This is because some garnishments are not considered “ordinary” and may include certain kinds of debt. For example, if you are in debt for child support, you can’t have any of your earnings garnished.
The minimum amount of wages that can be garnished
Wages can be garnished for several reasons, including unpaid taxes, child support, consumer debts, and student loans. The amount of wage garnishment that a creditor can take from an employee’s paycheck is regulated by federal law, and there are state and local rules. A creditor can only garnish up to a certain percentage of an employee’s gross wages, or 25% of their disposable income.
If a creditor decides to garnish your paycheck, you have a few options to fight back. First, to fight the garnishment, make sure you have a court order. A judge will generally only approve garnishment if you have at least $500 in your bank account. Otherwise, the creditor will have to ask a judge for permission to garnish your wages.
Effects on employees
Wage garnishment is a complicated process that can affect employees and employers in many ways. First, as an employer, you must ensure that the garnishment process is done legally and correctly. Not following the law can result in a judgment against you, a lawsuit by your employee or a creditor, and other potential costs.
Fortunately, the law has a provision that protects employees against wage garnishment by employers. Title III of the Consumer Credit Protection Act prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on wage garnishment. According to the act, an employer cannot garnish more than half of an employee’s weekly earnings. This protection applies to wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and periodic payments from a pension.
Employer penalties for excessive garnishments
Wage garnishment is a legal action taken by employers to collect unpaid wages. It is a complex procedure with specific rules and forms. It can result in fines for failure to comply with garnishment orders. Employers should review the garnishment FAQs to learn about their responsibilities.
Under federal law, garnishments can only be used for specific reasons. In addition, the wages subject to garnishment must be more than 25% of the employee’s disposable earnings (the amount left over after deductions such as social security and unemployment insurance). However, some types of garnishments are exempt. For example, tips and service charges are not considered “earnings” for garnishment purposes.
Notifying an employee of a garnishment
Notifying an employee of wage garnishment is integral to the garnishment process. Not only must the employer inform the employee in writing of the garnishment, but they must also include the garnishment calculation worksheet. This document outlines all the payments that will be garnished. It also outlines the protections that employees have under federal and state laws.
Employers may be required to garnish an employee’s wages to collect on debts. Wage garnishment laws vary by state, so it is essential to consult the Wage and Hour Division or contact the office listed on the wage garnishment order for further information. Failure to comply with garnishment rules can lead to costly penalties for the employer, including interest, court fees, and legal fees. In addition, if the garnishment is for child support, an employer may also be required to make up the missed payments.


On May 17, 2019, in a historic vote, the US House of Representatives passed the Equality Act, which would provide comprehensive and explicit nondiscrimination protections nationwide for the LGBTQ community, ensuring that nobody is discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and services, federally funded programs, and jury service. The vote marked the first time that a chamber of Congress approved a comprehensive nondiscrimination bill covering LGBTQ people.
In response, GLMA Executive Director Hector Vargas, JD, issued the following statement:
“Today we celebrate the US House of Representative’s historic and bipartisan vote to pass the Equality Act in support of equal opportunity and nondiscrimination for the LGBTQ community. As an organization of healthcare providers and professionals, GLMA and its members see firsthand what the research shows--that discrimination, stigma, and bias significantly and adversely impact the physical and mental well-being of LGBTQ people. Today’s action is not just a step toward preventing discrimination in virtually every aspect of everyday life, including healthcare settings, but is also a measure that can have lasting positive impact on the health and wellness of our communities. We are grateful to the House leadership and all House members who supported the Equality Act, and we now look to the Senate to pass the Equality Act without delay and ensure discrimination against LGBTQ individuals has no place in our society.”


Cold-blooded animals like lizards, insects and fish have a preferred body temperature range at which they hunt, eat, move quickly and reproduce. Fear that a warming climate will constrict this temperature range underlies recent studies that warn of the detrimental effects of climate change on the activity and survival of cold-blooded animals. While not contradicting these warnings, a new paper offers a revised framework that may better answer how activity is affected by temperature. Leer más.


Overview: This document presents the key findings and recommendations from a study conducted with Educational Welfare Officers on children and young people’s participation in planning meetings concerning their school attendance. The term ‘participation’ refers to the right of children and young people to express their views on decisions of relevance to them and for their views to be given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child (Article 12, UN Convention on the rights of the Child). Tusla’s understanding of participation is underpinned by the Lundy model.


(a) Except as provided for in subdivision (b), every household mover, as a condition precedent to the issuance, reinstatement, reactivation, renewal, or continued maintenance of a permit, shall have on file with the bureau a current and valid Certificate of Workers’ Compensation Insurance or Certification of Self-Insurance in the applicant’s or permitholder’s business name. A Certificate of Workers’ Compensation Insurance shall be issued and filed, electronically or otherwise, by an insurer duly licensed to write workers’ compensation insurance in this state. If reciprocity conditions exist, as provided in Section 3600.5 of the Labor Code, the bureau shall require the information deemed necessary to ensure compliance with this section.
(b) This section does not apply to an applicant or permitholder who has no employees, provided that the applicant or permitholder files a statement, under penalty of perjury, stating that, in its operations as a household mover, it does not employ any person in any manner so as to become subject to the workers’ compensation laws of this state.
(c) The workers’ compensation coverage certified to under subdivision (a) shall be effective until canceled. Cancellation shall require 30 days’ advance notice. A workers’ compensation insurer shall also report to the bureau a permitholder whose workers’ compensation insurance policy is canceled by the insurer if all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The insurer has completed a premium audit or investigation.
(2) A material misrepresentation has been made by the insured that results in financial harm to the insurer.
(3) No reimbursement has been paid by the insured to the insurer.
(d) If, after filing the statement described in subdivision (b), the household mover becomes subject to the workers’ compensation laws of this state, the household mover shall promptly notify the bureau that the household mover is withdrawing its statement under subdivision (b), and shall simultaneously file the certificate described in subdivision (a).
(e) The insurer, including the State Compensation Insurance Fund, shall report to the bureau the following information for any policy required under this section: name, license number, policy number, and dates that coverage is scheduled to commence and lapse, and cancellation date, if applicable.
(Added by Stats. 2017, Ch. 421, Sec. 8. (SB 19) Effective January 1, 2018. Operative July 1, 2018, pursuant to Section 19294.) Last modified: October 25, 2018


Abstract
Purpose: To test and apply a scintillation‐based method to directly observe proton residual range and range variation in a dynamic biological lung phantom. Method and Materials: The dynamic biological lung phantom using a preserved swine lung has previously been compared to human lung and evaluated as an experimental platform for IGRT studies. Fiducial markers and a 5 cc artificial tumor were placed in the lung, and the phantom was imaged on a GE Lightspeed CT in 4D mode before and after seed and “tumor” implantation. The resulting 10‐phase DICOM datasets were evaluated in terms of anterior‐posterior (AP) water‐equivalent path length (WEL) variation throughout the ventilatory cycle. The preserved swine lung was irradiated in the AP direction with a 170 MeV proton beam through a 1 cm × 10 cm slit aperture. Proton residual range and range variation were directly observed using a custom‐built lucite chamber filled with scintillating fluid, monitored during irradiation by a video camera. Images were then analyzed using ImageJ to determine residual proton range. Results: WEL analysis on the imaged lung suggests a range of lung WEL values between 8 and 25 mm (average ∼16 mm). Peak calculated WEL difference at the tumor margin after implantation during ventilatory motion was approximately 5mm. Irradiation of the phantom demonstrated regional range variation across the lung on the order of 13 mm, with total WEL values equivalent to calculated values. Residual range variation due to ventilatory motion was less significant, at some points on the order of ±2.4 mm. Conclusion: The dynamic biological lung phantom in conjunction with the scintillation chamber has been shown to be a simple, inexpensive, and effective tool for the measurement of proton residual range and significant residual range variation in a complex biological system.
ASJC Scopus subject areas Biophysics Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging


A recent decision from the District of New Hampshire underscores the risks facing proprietary cryptocurrency issuers and provides ammunition to the SEC in its continued efforts to classify cryptocurrencies as securities subject to registration and regulation. At
SEC v. LBRY, Inc., Judge Paul J. Barbadoro found that LBRY, Inc. LBRY did not dispute the facts underlying the SEC’s complaint but only argued that the LBC token was not the subject of a security under SEC regulations.
LBRY was launched in 2016 as a blockchain-based content distribution platform designed to allow users to share videos, images, and other digital content without a centralized host – in effect, YouTube is decentralized. The LBRY platform includes a proprietary blockchain, the LBRY Blockchain, which is the backbone of the overall network and provides decentralized content distribution.
The LBRY Blockchain was released in 2016 where proprietary LBC tokens are stored, transferred, and recorded. LBC tokens are used to view premium content on the network and to reward content creators. Users can mine LBC tokens by validating transactions on the network. LBRY is saving 400 million LBC to be “pre-mined” which will be used to drive “usage and adoption” of the network and fund LBRY’s operations. LBRY sells a large portion of its pre-mines to finance its operations. The SEC filed an enforcement action against LBRY in March 2021, alleging that LBRY’s sale of LBC tokens violated Sections 5(a) and 5(c) of the Securities Act.
The only issue before the court on summary judgment is whether the LBC token is a security for which LBRY is required to register the token or obtain an exemption from registration. The court applied
Howy test to determine whether the LBC token is an investment contract under US securities law, that is, whether the LBC token is “a contract, transaction or scheme in which people invest money in a public company and aim to expect profits only from the efforts of the promoter or a third party.” The court’s decision focused on the third prong of the Howy test – whether LBRY’s offering of LBC tokens leads to the expectation of profits from LBRY’s managerial efforts.
The court first noted that in LBRY’s communications to LBC buyers, LBRY repeatedly stated that the long-term value proposition of LBC tokens was inseparable from the success and adoption of the larger LBRY network. In one Reddit post, a LBRY spokesperson wrote that LBC will only “value in the future” if “LBRY keeps its promise to create a revolutionary way to monetize and sell content.” The court also examined LBRY’s business plan, noting that LBRY’s long-term profitability and success depended on the increase in the value of the LBC token. According to the judgment of the court, “by holding hundreds of millions of LBC for itself, LBRY also signals that it is motivated to work tirelessly to increase the value of the blockchain for itself and the buyers of LBC.”
LBRY argues that because LBC is a token designed for use in the LBRY network that some users purchase for use in transactions, LBC cannot be the subject of security for SEC regulations. The court rejected this argument, noting that while some buyers may have consumptive rather than speculative/investment purposes, the overall character of LBC suggests it is primarily an investment and thus, a security. In reaching this conclusion, the court emphasized that the subjective intent of buyers to use LBC tokens for transactions does not override LBRY’s statement of expected value as the LBRY network grows. In addition, the court rejected LBRY’s claim that the company’s disclaimer that it does not offer LBC tokens as an investment means that it is outside the scope of securities law. Following the same reasoning from
SEC v. Telegram Grp., Inc.other enforcement actions in the cryptocurrency space, the court noted that LBRY’s disclaimers “cannot justify the economic reality of [the] transaction.” The structural work and incentive behind the LBC token renders it a security Howey test despite LBRY’s statements to the contrary.
LBRY also stated that it did not have fair notice that the offering was in compliance with securities laws due to previous SEC actions and guidance related to crypto offerings focused on initial coin offerings (ICOs). The court rejected this argument, noting that even if LBRY’s claim was true,
Howy the test will apply equally to ICO and non-ICO offerings. In taking action against LBRY, the SEC did not make a “novel interpretation of the rules” requiring fair notice, but relied “on the direct application of respected Supreme Court precedent that has been applied by hundreds of federal courts across the country for more than 70 years.” Because LBC tokens are qualified as securities Howey test, LBRY has fair notice that the SEC may take action against it for the sale of unregistered tokens.
The court’s decision is the latest in a series of SEC wins and demonstrates that even if the agency grapples with how to classify cryptocurrencies as a whole, individual tokens can still be subject to regulation as securities under existing law based on a practical approach to applying in
Howy analysis for tokens that disregards contract language. It also shows that tokens with consumptive use and speculative purposes can become securities. Proprietary tokens — unique tokens for products associated with unique user products — are particularly susceptible to classification as securities Howey test because the value of token ownership depends significantly on the use and adoption of the product as a whole. Some courts apply Howey have focused on this factor to find that proprietary tokens are securities.
This court decision may have significant impact beyond the securities context. Just four days after
LBRY This decision was issued, FTX and approximately 130 corporate entities affiliated with it, including Alameda Research and FTX US, filed for bankruptcy – the third major cryptocurrency platform to seek Chapter 11 protection this year. FTX, which, like bankrupt crypto lender Celsius Network, relies heavily on its own minted tokens for liquidity and net equity, is currently under investigation by the SEC and CFTC (among others). If crypto exchanges and lenders in bankruptcy seek to issue ownership tokens to facilitate reorganization, they may find themselves in a tougher regulatory environment than previously anticipated. Additionally, the discovery that tokens issued prior to bankruptcy are securities may bring transactions in those tokens within the scope of the Bankruptcy Code’s safe harbor and prevent such transactions.
While the overall regulatory landscape is still evolving for cryptocurrencies, issuers and developers should keep in mind that some tokens are subject to regulation under existing precedent if the SEC has successfully applied. Companies developing proprietary blockchains with tokens designed for use in a larger ecosystem of user products should take note.
Howy analyze when designing the overall product ecosystem and when generating investment materials. The company should also note that a disclaimer stating that the token is not offered as an investment will not prevent a court from finding that the token is a security under Howey test.


It is essential to point out that OT (occupational therapy) differs from physical therapy (PT) in the sense that the latter focuses on rehab (increasing mobility and stopping or preventing further loss of capacities). In contrast, occupational therapy
focuses on teaching patients new techniques and methods to live with this impairment or illness.
These can be
activities such as
Every healthcare practitioner should have a good relationship with the patient, but occupational therapists probably excel at this. They need to build
trust with the patient, so they can know the person’s feelings, fears, and frustrations to inform the doctors and other healthcare practitioners. This relationship between patient and therapist is undoubtedly an essential aspect of OT.


Urgent & Emergency Care
Urgent care is medically necessary care that you need for a sudden illness or injury that isn't life threatening. It does not require immediate attention from a medical professional to avoid complications, like infection.
Emergency care, on the other hand, is care you need to treat a serious medical condition immediately. This includes a mental health emergency. An emergency is a thread to either:


Improved Learning of Robot Manipulation Tasks via Tactile Intrinsic Motivation
In this paper we address the challenge of exploration in deep reinforcement learning for robotic manipulation tasks. In sparse goal settings, an agent does not receive any positive feedback until randomly achieving the goal, which becomes infeasible for longer control sequences. Inspired by touch-based exploration observed in children, we formulate an intrinsic reward based on the sum of forces between a robot's force sensors and manipulation objects that encourages physical interaction. Furthermore, we introduce contact-prioritized experience replay, a sampling scheme that prioritizes contact rich episodes and transitions. We show that our solution accelerates the exploration and outperforms state-of-the-art methods on three fundamental robot manipulation benchmarks.READ FULL TEXT


August 19, 2019
Maternal and pediatric health and disease: integrating biopsychosocial models and epigenetics
Rubin LP. Maternal and pediatric health and disease: integrating biopsychosocial models and epigenetics. Pediatric Research. 2015;79:127.
Abstract:
The concepts of allostasis (stability through adaptation) and accumulated life stress (McEwen’s allostatic load) aim to understand childhood and adult outcomes. Chronic malnutrition, changes in social condition, and adverse early-life experiences may program phenotypes and contribute to long-lasting disease risk. However, integration of life course approaches, social and economic contexts, and comparison among different biopsychosocial models has not generally been explored. This review critically examines the literature and evaluates recent insights into how environmental stress can alter lifelong hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and immune system responsiveness and induce metabolic and neurodevelopmental maladaptation. Models of biopsychosocial stress overlap but may consider different conditions. Concepts include allostasis, which incorporates hormonal responses to predictable environmental changes, and Geronimus’s “weathering,” which aims to explain how socially structured, repeated stress can accumulate and increase disease vulnerability. Weathering emphasizes roles of internalized/interpersonal racism in outcomes disparities. For Mexican immigrants and Mexican Americans, the “acculturation” framework has proven especially useful to explore disparities, including preterm birth and neuropsychiatric risks in childhood. Complexities of stress assessments and recent research into epigenetic mechanisms mediating effects of physical, nutritional, psychological, and social stress are reviewed.


Labour union Unite Here Local 54 has estimated that Caesars Entertainment and MGM each risk losing $1m (£813,153/€943,067) per day in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) if casino workers go on strike in Atlantic City.
Unite Here’s members provide cleaning services for hotel rooms, gaming floors and restrooms across Atlantic City.
The union released the figures in a strike impact report, which was issued following a vote from workers at five Atlantic City Casinos– which passed with a 96% majority on 15 June.
The vote included workers at all three Atlantic City casinos operated by Caesars Entertainment- Caesars, Harrah’s, and Tropicana.
It also included staff at MGM Resorts Entertainment’s Borgata casino and the Hard Rock casino.
The report estimated that the strike could cost Caesars approximately $1m per day in EBITDA. This is assuming that Caesar’s Q3 2022 results would have a 10% year-on-year increase, and that the strike results in a yearly decline of 25% in net revenue.
Meanwhile, the strike could cost MGM’s Borgata approximately $1.6m in EBITDA, with the same assumptions in place.
According to the report, the strike could cause a disruption in operations that would affect food and beverage availability, cause a decrease in customer service and cause a reduced hotel room occupancy.
The report also stated that the effects of the strike could be amplified by the tight labour market.
The last Unite Here strike occurred in 2004.
The strike deadline – which is set for 1 July – falls just before the 4 July holiday, which is also when the third quarter is expected to peak.
The paper also noted that Caesars received 15% of its earnings last year from its Atlantic City properties, and is therefore at significant potential exposure to the industrial action.


The Department of the Interior has proposed a new rule to “preserve, manage, and protect paleontological resources” on lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The proposed rule would address the management, collection, and curation of paleontological resources from federal lands using scientific principles and expertise, including collection in accordance with permits; curation in an approved repository; and maintenance of confidentiality of specific locality data.
A permit would be required for collecting paleontological resources or disturbing paleontological sites except for casual collecting on certain lands managed by the Bureaus of Land Management or Reclamation where casual collecting is allowed. All collected materials will be the property of the Federal Government, and must be managed and curated consistent with certain requirements.
The rule would implement the Paleontological Resources Preservation Act, which was enacted in 2009. The Forest Service finalized a regulation to implement the law on Department of Agriculture lands in 2015. The proposed rule would implement the law on lands managed by the Department of the Interior, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and lands managed by the Bureaus of Land Management and Reclamation.
Comments on the proposed rule are due by February 6, 2017.
Learn more about the proposed rule and how to submit comments at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2016-12-07/html/2016-29244.htm.
NSC Alliance is currently analyzing the proposed rule and may submit comments. Please contact Robert Gropp, NSC Alliance director of public policy, with any feedback.


During one’s life sciences career, it’s common to develop work habits. While some may help you excel, others aren’t as conducive when it comes to supporting ongoing success and they may be a significant hindrance, harming your productivity significantly.
As a life sciences professional, honestly assessing your routines and go-to strategies is essential to ensure that none of the mechanisms, mindsets, or processes you have in place are doing more harm than good. With that in mind, here’s a look at five poor work habits we’re ditching this year that you may want to consider losing, too.
1. Procrastination
Often, the idea of doing work tasks that you don’t enjoy weighs heavily on your mind. As a result, you may be tempted to put the activity off until the next day (or close to the deadline) as a means of avoiding responsibilities you find tedious or difficult. However, that approach can often backfire.
When you try and sidestep duties you don’t want to handle, the fact that they’re sitting on your to-do list can actually increase your stress levels. Plus, trying to rush and do them at the last minute can be incredibly anxiety-inducing and may diminish your work quality.
Instead, tackle responsibilities you don’t enjoy as soon as possible. By doing so, you’ll get a sense of relief that it’s handled and can handle it during a time where you can give it the required amount of attention, as well as avoid any of the trapping associated with delaying the inevitable.
2. Not Networking
In many cases, life sciences professionals view networking as an unnecessary burden. However, it’s legitimately a powerful tool that can boost your career and provide sources of support. Forging new connections and maintaining existing relationships gives you access to a sounding board when you encounter a challenge. Plus, members of your network may be able to connect you to career-boosting opportunities, making the required effort worthwhile.
3. Working When Ill
Many professionals believe that pushing themselves to work when they’re under the weather is a must. At times, the pressure to do so comes from within, though it may be augmented by external factors, too.
Ultimately, when you’re legitimately ill, your ability to focus is hindered, leading to lower-quality outputs. Additionally, if you come to a formal workplace, you expose others to something potentially contagious. Instead, use your sick leave if you’re ill, allowing you to rest and, potentially, heal faster.
4. Working Through Breaks
When you’re dealing with a massive workload, it may make it seem like working through your breaks – including lunches – is a smart choice. The notion is usually based on capturing more working hours, allowing you to spend more time focused on your responsibilities.
However, working through breaks is inherently draining. You aren’t seizing opportunities to relax and recharge, which can harm your ability to focus and remain productive. Instead, take your breaks and lunches away from your workstation, allowing you to rest briefly so that you can return to your tasks rejuvenated.
5. Staying in a Bad Job
It isn’t uncommon for professionals to stay in a wrong-fit life sciences job for far longer than they should. At times, it’s due to a sense of loyalty or a belief that the situation will magically improve. In others, it’s a fear of looking like a job hopper.
However, moving on to something new can be the better choice. It allows you to find a job that you find satisfying and that can help you grow and advance. As a result, leaving a bad job is often worth the risk/
Are you ready for a new career-boosting life sciences job? Partner with the Staffing Resource Group to find a right-fit opportunity quickly. Contact us to learn more about our services today.


In this short video I use a very timely personal experience to explain how unexpressed expectations generally end up in disappointment, frustration and even resentment. When we erroneously expect that others can intuit what we want, we do a disservice to them and ourselves. When we are clear, open and transparent, we greatly increase the
In this video, I use a personal example of a challenging experience to demonstrate how we often attach to negatives and provide coping skills and examples of how to use challenges as tools to let go, grow and create positive change 🙂
Fear… It can stop us in our paths, prevent us from going after what we want and creates stagnation. In this video, I use a personal example to demonstrate how fear shows up, how I’m working with it to avoid ‘stuckness’ and become productive. Fear is false. A bit of anxiety can be healthy,


Dean’s Circle brought influential societal actors to Aalto to explore future leadership
The Dean’s Circle organised by Aalto University School of Business brought together more than a hundred central opinion leaders from business and society to explore future leadership.
Keynote speakers included Professor
Julian Birkinshaw from London Business School, Kone CEO Henrik Ehrnrooth and Slush CEO Marianne Vikkula. Discussion was facilitated by Vice Dean Kristiina Mäkelä, Executive in Residence Juha Äkräs and Professor Olli-Pekka Kauppila from the School of Business. Professor Julian Birkinshaw from London Business School
Birkinshaw pointed out that digital disruption makes it necessary to re-examine the issue of leadership. He argued that the firms should foster a culture of decisive action allied to emotional conviction. He emphasized that leadership is about guiding the way, and employees’ proactive participation is crucial in this respect. Birkinshaw also noted that future leadership requires ambidexterity.
Ehrnrooth emphasised that leadership is about providing an optimal context rather than defining content. Context shows the direction through vision, mission, values and strategy. He also used the term ambidexterity and noted that today’s leaders need to be humble, adaptable and curios, as well as ready to change their opinions whilst at the same time holding on tight to the direction they have set.
The notion of leadership as service was highlighted by Vikkula and she described herself as a guardian of culture in terms of leadership. Leadership at Slush is based on both full responsibility and freedom. She further stressed the importance of collective ownership and doing things together – “Ego is the enemy”.
The host of the event Dean
Ingmar Björkman highlighted in his opening speech that solving real world challenges is a central part of education at the School of Business, and he emphasized the role of collaboration with businesses and other organisations. Björkman also thanked the School of Business’ partners and supporters for their input with regard to the School’s development as part of Aalto University. He concluded with an overview of the School’s move to Otaniemi in summer 2019 and emphasized that also in the future the School of Business is built on collaboration with important partners. Dean Ingmar Björkman
At the end of the event students from the School of Business presented Aalto University’s student-driven start-up activities and discussed their studies with the guests.
The event was held on 3 October. Dean’s Circle is a cooperative network for Aalto University’s important stakeholders and donors. Dean’s Circle offers a multidisciplinary community and a unique meeting point for the university and central opinion leaders from society.
Photos: Anni Hanén


Truck trailers are designed differently from regular cars, and they are available in different types. The ultimate truck design depends on the manufacturer, load requirements, and roadway regulations and guidelines for each state.
Truck trailers are designed for long-distance transport, usually for millions of kilometers. Sometimes truck drivers live in the cab for days or even weeks before they visit their homes. These automobiles come with special features that enable them to move their loads efficiently during freight and act as a home for the occupants, usually the driver and assistant.
Types of trucks Automotive haulage
This type of trailer is designed to transport cars on a car transporter. Operators must have special skills for operating and loading the vehicle.
Boat haulage: This kind of truck is meant to transport small boats. It is usually small or medium in size. Larger boats may require specialized low trailers often known as “lowboy” to transport. This type of truck may require pilot vehicles and a haulage plan so that they can avoid low bridges, especially if they are oversized.
Dry goods trucks
Most of the freight entails dry goods usually transported in a box body or curtain sider trucks. These trucks could be small or medium and rigid in design.
Flatbed trucks
These trucks are designed to transport other vehicles or large bulky goods, such as water tanks or concrete pipes. Some special flatbed trucks can transport forestry products or are designed with a tilted mechanism that allows other vehicles to get on from the rear. Besides, some of them have special functions, such as hauling heavy goods and bulky equipment like mining equipment and cranes.
Furniture trucks
Also known as Luton peak bodies, these trucks are box vans designed with an extended section on top of the cab. On the inside, they have many anchor points for securing the furniture. Some of these trucks are large and articulated.
Livestock
These trucks carry live animals—sheep, cattle, pigs, and others.
Reefers
These are refrigerated trailers. They are meant to transport perishable, temperature-sensitive, and delicate items, such as food items and medication. They can be divided into separate containers or box trucks.
Tankers
These trucks are designed to haul liquid goods, such as milk, petrol, or chemicals. They can also transport dry and bulky materials, such as sugar, flour, or cement. Operators of these trucks may require special certifications, such as hazardous goods, based on the type of goods to be transported.
Tippers
Also known as dump trailers, these trucks are made to transport building materials, such as sand, aggregates, and mud. They come handy on construction sites and are designed to tip sideways or backward to offload their contents.
Finally and importantly, there are specialist trucks, which are designed for particular purposes. They include tow trucks, cranes, mining trucks, concrete mixers, and airport trucks. Semi-trailers, B-double trailers, pig trailers, and dog-trailers are also in the specialist truck family.
With this information, you can consider your choices and hit the dealerships knowing what exactly suits your application.


MES Software Market to Grow to US$5.4 Billion in 2031 as Manufacturers Accelerate Digital Automation Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) might have been around for a while, but recent innovations put their evolutionary path at the intersection of Industry 4.0 and next-generation industrial automation.
MES software is a significant product for manufacturers to bring their factories into the industry 4.0 space. According to analysis by global technology intelligence firm
ABI Research, investment in MES software will reach US$5.4 billion in 2031 as manufacturers embrace new and innovative productivity-enhancing solutions. In particular, the research revealed a growing shift to cloud-based MES software alongside tactics and best practices for integrating and automating the use of production data with the help of modern architecture.
“While some manufacturers remain hesitant to move to cloud-based MES software due to security concerns, the ease of deployment and maintenance, alongside cheaper and transparent costing, will continue to encourage manufacturers to adopt this new structure and usage,” explains James Prestwood, Industrial and Manufacturing Analyst at ABI Research.
The MES market has seen a growing number of new entrants in recent years, with younger companies, such as Apprentice.io and Tulip, bringing new MES offerings to the market. These new entrants are driving major change in the MES market by introducing innovative functionality, such as cloud-native design and tools for citizen developer communities that ease and accelerate application creation to serve not only enterprise-level manufacturers but also SMEs. Similarly, established enterprise software firms, such as Oracle and SAP, are also turning their hand to MES products. These cohorts join large market incumbents such as Siemens, Dassault Systèmes, and Rockwell Automation.
“Whereas MES software was once a large and expensive investment, its delivery through the cloud and availability as SaaS, makes it more accessible to a broader base of manufacturers, including those with lower CAPEX budgets,” Prestwood concludes.
These findings are from ABI Research’s Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): Their Future and Place in the Modern Factory application analysis report and Manufacturing Execution Systems market data report. These reports are part of the company’s Industrial and Manufacturing research service, which includes research, data, and ABI Insights. Based on extensive primary interviews, Application Analysis reports present an in-depth analysis of key market trends and factors for a specific application, which could focus on an individual market or geography. Market Data spreadsheets are composed of deep data, market share analysis, and highly segmented, service-specific forecasts to provide detailed insight into where opportunities lie.


Fairtrade and the carbon market
Published: 27 Nov 2015
Climate change is affecting small-scale farmers and rural communities now.
Fairtrade's climate change strategy aims to support producers to adapt to climate change and reduce their carbon emissions, while ensuring technical and financial support without adding extra burden to producers.
The Fairtrade Climate Standard aims to drive more income from the carbon market to rural communities who tend otherwise to be excluded from these mechanisms.


When I was a 30-year-old mother and career-driven director at IWK Children’s Hospital, I was mistaken for the paper-boy by a staff member’s mother when dropping off documents at her house one Saturday afternoon.
While this was a humbling and somewhat amusing experience, it was not unusual in the upswing of my career to feel underestimated and dismissed. In the same vein, years later, I was advised to increase my executive presence. “By all means,” I said. “Just how do I accomplish that?” I was encouraged to watch another woman who exudes executive presence and replicate. For the record — that is not good advice.
Now, after years of diverse leadership experience working and volunteering in a variety of sectors, I am confident in my authentic professional brand, but that wasn’t always the case. Today, as I advise my daughters to embrace their chosen professional paths and aspire to be strong leaders, I realize that elevating your influence can not only be taught, but also practiced and achieved early in life.
As a facilitator of a breakthrough program called Elevating Women in Leadership, a unique opportunity exclusively for women to reflect, connect, and make choices about their impact, I know that the resources are finally available to achieve this. With insights that have been gleaned through years of work with Global, Canadian and U.S. Fortune 500 companies, combined with world-class development in contemporary gender diversity research, this type of programming is extremely effective, and currently vital in enabling the success of women in leadership.
The program asks participants to consider that their experience is their best teacher; to consider their life story and jot down those milestone moments that have shaped the leader they are today — both good and bad. Understanding this connection between the highs and lows of their career enables the aspiring leader to chart their future success.
The idea of women coming together in a small, supportive group and tapping into their inner power through thoughtful discussion, reflection and commitment to change, has never been more relevant. Significant topics covered within this groundbreaking program include: discovering leadership impact, defining a personal vision, practicing powerful presence, speaking with a point of view, developing resilience and boundaries, and increasing sphere of influence. As a result, participants walk away from this high-impact experience with insight into their performance and perceived potential, alongside a comprehensive leadership plan and the confident mindset required to achieve it.
In addition, the articulation of a personal mantra (a statement that summarizes an individual’s spirit and challenges them as a leader) can also serve as a source of leadership empowerment. I’ve had a few — one that has always served me well is, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” Today, I as I work to secure a professional legacy, “make a difference” is often more prominent. An impactful mantra aligns with personal values and can be highly effective for inspiration and motivation, both personally and professionally.
As today’s society continues to evolve, I doubt you’ll be mistaken for a paper-boy or find yourself advised to copy others, however, the path for women in leadership continues to present both challenge and opportunity. To ensure each one of us is heard and our reach is wide, we need to help each other.
Interested in learning more about Elevating Women in Leadership?
.
As an Associate within KBRS's consulting practice, Catherine’s approach to leadership development is informed by her uniquely diverse leadership experience in public relations and human resource management across the private, public, and non-profit sectors. A well-respected leader, Catherine has a track record of achieving results by building teams, creating and communicating vision, forging partnerships, and meeting critical challenges through transformational change.


This event has passed. SoEC Spotlight – The Golden Fire: Forging Links Between Graphical Device Comprehension and Text Comprehension February 9 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Spotlight – Grace Hartzell Pigozzi, Ph.D.,
Reading comprehension is influenced by much more than the ability to decode words. Word knowledge, engagement and fluency each contribute to text comprehension. Yet, students’ abilities to understand graphical devices also may also contribute significantly to successful comprehension. This paper is part of a larger study that uses a multimodal framework to discuss how children use graphical devices to mediate text and often to craft new meanings altogether. Findings and implications suggest the explicit teaching of image interpretation, a crucial component of comprehension.
Location
In-person CLO 239 or via Zoom
To request a disability-related accommodation, please contact the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion five days prior to the event at edi@pnw.edu, 219-989-2163 (Hammond Campus) or 219-785-5545 (Westville Campus).


A poll released in Sep. 2019 found that 86% of teenagers believe human activity is causing climate change, compared to 79% of adults. Other polls have found that 14% of Americans deny climate change exists, and noted the political divide among those who think climate change is mostly caused by humans (84% of liberal Democrats vs. 26% of conservative Republicans).


Coming Soon!
We are excited to develop an online learning platform where we can offer a self-paced option for caregivers. Modules will be paired with a clinician meeting to review collaboration and take-home exercises.
TIPES will also soon provide caregiver training adapted from Dr. Evelyn Gould’s six-week “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) parenting protocol,” which promotes flexible, creative, and adaptive parenting strategies associated with lower levels of child problem behaviour. This short-term training package is delivered in a similar format, with caregiver/clinician collaboration and take-home exercises. Here, the goal is to aid in increasing self-compassion, engagement of values-directed behaviours, and promote positive inter-family relationships.


The purpose of this study is to evaluate the utilization of intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) for tumor localization in breast-conserving surgery and to examine its impact on margin positivity and re-excision rates. Additionally, the study seeks to identify factors contributing to surgeon utilization of IOUS.
A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients with preoperative diagnosis of breast cancer undergoing breast-conserving surgery by breast surgeons at multiple centers within a single healthcare system. Characteristics such as lesion size, palpability, histology, receptor status, and use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy were recorded. Re-excision rates were determined based on localization technique and surgeons' status of breast ultrasound certification.
Increasing familiarity with and utilization of IOUS during breast-conserving surgery may be clinically advantageous over traditional localization techniques. Ultrasound certification may lead to increased use of IOUS among surgeons.
Read the full article here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36319507/


This month we released early findings from our national survey of 660 LGBTQ+ young people (16-25 years) that ran from August-November 2020. While the survey asked a range of questions relating to mental health, social media, and peer support, this report focuses on questions asked about COVID-19 and associated lockdowns, and how these impacted survey participants. We consider these data alongside interviews conducted with
Twenty10 staff and volunteers in late 2020.
We report on 5 questions asked of survey participants in relation to COVID-19, alongside data from 11 interviews with Twenty10 staff and volunteers who support LGBTQ+ young people in NSW. As a result of COVID-19, Twenty10 suspended drop-in services in 2020, and developed new ways to support young people, including the development of a Discord server. Staff and volunteers report on the challenges of LGBTQ+ youth service delivery during a pandemic, and discuss the needs for the LGBTQ+ support sector into the future.
We hope the report is valuable to LGBTQ+ service providers, communities, and researchers, here and abroad. This project was also designed to support Twenty10, as our research partner, and was funded by the
Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion at the University of Technology Sydney.
Many thanks to all survey and interview participants for sharing their experiences. The report can be found
HERE.


Cytological diagnosis of vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) is often challenging for several reasons, including the low cellularity of vitreous fluid samples, fragility of lymphoma cells, and presence of a reactive lymphocytic infiltrate, which can mislead cytological analysis. Therefore, a diagnostic workup may include a vitreous analysis with multiparameter flow cytometry or molecular testing to establish B-cell clonality.1 Because diagnostic delay is a major prognostic factor in VRL, adjunctive diagnostic tests have been developed over the last few decades. However, such ancillary diagnostic tools, including interleukin 10 (IL-10) and IL-6 dosages2,3 and ISOLD score calculation,4 are not sufficient to state the diagnosis of VRL and are not a substitute for a cellular approach for diagnosing VRL. Because the MYD88 mutation has been described in a high proportion of primary VRL cases,3 its detection could be helpful in cases of high clinical suspicion of lymphoma without any cytology or clonality confirmation.
Touitou V, Costopoulos M, Maloum K. Detection of MYD88 Mutations in Vitreoretinal Lymphoma and Its Implications. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2018;136(10):1104–1105. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2018.2894
© 2022
Monkeypox Resource Center
Customize your JAMA Network experience by selecting one or more topics from the list below.


If a dog bit you, you might qualify for compensation from the owner if they were in a position to prevent the incident. You could also receive reimbursement for personal items destroyed during the attack.
A Henry dog bite lawyer will study your case to assess if the owner was negligent. After that, they will calculate the sustained damages and file a claim. Continue reading for more details on dog bite cases and the recoverable injuries.
Determining Responsibility for a Dog Bite
Dog owners must protect other parties from injuries resulting from an attack. Hence, they are often accountable for physical harm and other damages resulting from dog bites.
A Henry lawyer can help you prove that an owner was responsible by investigating your case. For example, if you sustained injuries in a public area, the attorney could determine if the dog was on a leash. Further, they will evaluate whether you provoked the animal, leading to an attack.
If other parties witnessed a dog attack, your lawyer would interview them. This process allows the attorney to confirm the information you provided regarding the incident. More methods your personal injury attorney will use to establish fault include:
Analyzing video surveillance footage of the attack Studying a police report Studying images captured at the scene
For a free legal consultation with a dog bite lawyer serving Henry, call (337) 777-7777
Filing a Claim for Henry Dog Bite Injuries
Once your Henry lawyer has enough evidence indicating a dog owner breached their duty of care, they will start the claims process. Here, the lawyer will connect the lack of responsibility to the attack. After that, they will gather documents and proof linking the attack to specific injuries.
When your lawyer establishes all claim elements, they will identify the sustained damages. This process will involve assessing how the attack affected your physical and mental health. Besides, it may include determining the property damages resulting from a dog bite.
The next step your Henry lawyer will take is writing a demand letter. After that, they will send the document to the dog owner or their insurance company.
Henry Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me (337) 777-7777
Negotiating Compensation for Damages Caused by Dog Bites
Insurance companies may offer reimbursement for dog bite injuries. We can determine if the settlement will cover all the costs you incurred after the attack. If the proposed amount is lower, your attorney will meet with insurance adjusters to negotiate a better offer.
During this meeting, your lawyer will prove why the provided compensation is insufficient. They will also support the claim with evidence and financial documents. If the insurance company fails to increase the offer to a satisfactory amount, your lawyer could file a lawsuit. This step allows them to present the case in court and fight for fair compensation.
Filing a Henry dog bite claim may help you seek compensation for several damages.
You Could Recover an Award That Covers Your Medical Costs
For example, you could pursue various past medical costs related to your condition. These include:
Hospitalization Buying medication Transport costs Doctor consultation fees Treatment
Your lawyer will work with doctors to determine the medical effects resulting from a dog bite. After that, they will evaluate if you need long-term care and assess the costs. We will then obtain a report from the physician and use it to claim future medical expenses.
Your Settlement or Award Could Cover Your Lost Wages
Dog bites can be severe, causing you to miss work until you completely recover. Your Henry lawyer could seek lost income and wages based on your earning capacity. They can also assess the cost of career opportunities you might miss out on due to injuries and add them to the claim.
Adverse Mental Health Effects Caused By the Attack Are Compensable
Dog attacks are traumatizing and can lead to adverse mental health effects. You may also sustain traumatic brain injuries, affecting some cognitive functions. Your lawyer will determine the severity of impact and the duration you will suffer mental health injuries, then claim reimbursement for treatment costs. More damages your attorney might seek are:
Reduced quality of life Trauma Physical impairment Loss of consortium
You might also face damaged personal items like a phone or clothing destroyed during the attack.
Our Team Can Help You Pursue a Case Involving Dog Bites and Wrongful Death
Dog bites can lead to a fatality if the victim sustains injuries in critical areas like the head or neck. If you lost a loved one due to such an incident or its secondary effects, you could file a wrongful death claim against the liable party.
Your dog bite lawyer will evaluate how the fatality impacted your life in Henry to determine the appropriate settlement. After that, they might claim reimbursement for:
Burial and funeral costs Lost future income Lost financial contributions Grief Lost guidance and companionship
If your loved one sought medical care after sustaining dog bite injuries, you might recover medical costs. We will present invoices and receipts of all expenses when filing the case. We can also obtain statements from healthcare providers to prove that the fatality resulted from dog bites.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
More Ways Your Dog Bite Lawyer Could Help
Your lawyer can advise you on many legal matters during the claim process. For example, they can handle communications with the insurance company and advise about fair settlement offers. Further, they can advise avoiding confrontation with the dog owner until the case closes.
Your lawyer can represent you in court and meetings. If you cannot accompany your attorney during such sessions, they can update you. Further, they can follow up on your claim and determine how to deal with issues delaying the case. More ways your attorney can help include:
Ensuring you understand Louisiana dog bite laws Explaining how state and federal laws apply to your claim Assessing the value of your damages Filing your dog bite claim within the statute of limitations in Louisiana imposed by Louisiana Civil Code § 3492
Your lawyer will handle your case on contingency. This means you will not pay any legal fees unless we recover damages from the liable party.
Contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers to Speak to Our Dog Bite Lawsuit Team
We have a legal team that will offer the assistance you want. Our lawyers serving Henry will analyze your case and build your dog bite claim or lawsuit based on verifiable information.
Further, we will determine the proper actions based on your case’s circumstances. Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers for a free case consultation.


Seoul is tackling the twin challenges of air pollution and the climate crisis by slashing transport emissions, replacing 400,000 polluting combustion engine vehicles with battery electric vehicles by 2026. Seoul already has a Green Transport Zone, restricting access for the most polluting vehicles, and the city has made it mandatory for all new vehicles to be electric from 2025.
To support this transition, the city is rapidly rolling out electric vehicle charging infrastructure powered by solar panels, which are to be accessible within a five-minute walk of every resident. New charging sites have been created by repurposing lamp posts, bollards and petrol stations. Innovative “smart poles” have also been erected, which combine a fast-charging function, public wi-fi and the internet of things.
Seoul’s actions have already had a considerable impact, reducing transport emissions by nearly a quarter and doubling the number of clean, electric vehicles on the road. The city is providing subsidies for electric vehicles of up to 20%, with additional support available for vulnerable people and low-income households to ensure all residents have access to clean transport. By 2026, 10% of the city’s vehicles will be electric, which is expected to save drivers up to 72% in costs. The initiative will create almost 15,000 jobs and reduce emissions by approximately 43% compared with 2005 levels, improving air quality and protecting the public health of Seoul’s residents.
This case study was originally published for the 2022 C40 Cities Bloomberg Philanthropies Awards, which recognise ambitious and impactful projects led by mayors that address climate challenges. The initiative featured as a finalist in the award category:
Accelerating Immediate Action in Critical Sectors


Summary The iGaming sector in the EU faces higher money laundering risks now compared to 2019 FATF recommends new AML regulations for EU nations to follow Unlicensed iGaming sites in EU are key targets for criminals
The
Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has added new recommendations concerning money laundering and terrorism financing risk assessments carried out by EU member states. The new recommendations are contained in the European Commission’s Supranational Risk Assessment (SNRA) Report which was last updated three years ago.
The SNRA report must be updated every two years under the EU Anti-money Laundering Directive (AMLD). But as the pandemic hit, updates needed to be postponed to 2022. This allowed AML stakeholders to further examine certain aspects and make better judgments.
Online Gambling Facing Increased AML Threats
The updated recommendations in the SNRA report give heavy emphasis on online gambling and crypto-assets. The report stated that risk levels involved in these two sectors require re-calculation, citing significant changes in both industries in recent years.
The FATF also identified other factors having a major impact on EU businesses, such as
COVID-19 and the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. The global money laundering watchdog stated in its latest report that current conditions have increased the risk of money laundering across economic sectors and businesses in the EU, opening up fresh opportunities for criminals.
The SNRA’s category overview highlighted the fast economic growth and technological development in the gambling industry, with the online sector experiencing strong growth during and after the pandemic. Because of this, online gambling now faces higher risks of money laundering compared to 2019 when the SNRA was last updated.
Money laundering risks are particularly high among jurisdictions targeted by unlicensed online operators. These operators use digital payment platforms and virtual currencies that provide users with a high level of anonymity, making it more difficult for authorities to track financial transactions.
Money-Laundering Activities Remain Largely Cash-Based
Land-based casinos also remain highly vulnerable to money laundering, with cash transactions still the most popular store of value for criminal gangs even in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the report noted.
While criminality continues to evolve, the criminal economy remains largely cash-based. Businesses in the EU should be more vigilant than ever with regards to money laundering and terrorist financing considering the anonymity and ease of movement associated with cash and related assets.
The FATF also highlighted the gambling sector’s lack of specific tailored reporting on suspicious transactions. It advised financial intelligence units in the EU to enhance the quality of industry reports and improve the use of information provided to them.


Reddening of the face and the neck can be linked to feelings of embarrassment or shame. However, most of the time the main issue for a sufferer is not the blushing itself, but the fear of blushing.
Deep Awareness Technique introduces ‘anchors’ which are tools for the sufferer to use in reducing or stopping the blushing response. It also aims to strengthen confidence and personal control in situations that trigger blushing.
To discuss how we can help please contact us. Your telephone consultation is free of charge, during this conversation our aim is to establish how and if we can help you.


As global political volatility continues to heighten, so too does the unpredictable and complex nature of terrorism and political violence risks.
Miller continues to be at the forefront of the London market’s evolving cover. Our terrorism and political violence team help clients navigate the diversifying risk environment and can advise on a range of solutions that protect property, finances and people, and help to mitigate risk.
Client-centred approach
Over the years our team has built up extensive knowledge, deep experience and valuable market influence. This, combined with our dedication to fully understand our clients’ needs and circumstances, empowers us to deliver smart, comprehensive and cost-effective risk transfer solutions.
Our solutions
Working with intermediaries and insureds across the world, we secure a range of coverages on a standalone or combined package basis. These include:
Terrorism Alternatives to TRIA and TRIA captive wrap Active shooter/assailant Nuclear, chemical, biological or radioactive weapons Malicious damage Sabotage Strikes, riots, civil commotion Insurrection, revolution or rebellion Mutiny, coup d’état War on land and civil war
Our holistic cover for active assailant attacks
Who we help
We arrange cover across a diverse range of sectors globally, from smaller companies with single asset risks to multinationals with a global exposure. These include:
Fortune 500 Real estate Offices and banks Power and utilities Chemical and pharmaceutical Energy - oil and gas Construction and mining Hospitality Hospitals and healthcare facilities Retailers and shopping malls Transport hubs
Miller’s Claims expertise


Inquiries and document requests from DOJ, SEC, state AGs, and other agencies pose significant risk to banks, broker-dealers, and other financial institutions. These inquiries are often sensitive, touch on important customer relationships, or potentially implicate the institution’s personnel or policies. Our team assists you in responding to these requests. We handle all aspects of investigations, from preserving documents and data, to counseling on anti-money laundering laws, to defending against SEC or DOJ inquiries and enforcement actions. We understand the difficulties inherent in responding to these inquiries, including the burden these projects place on staff at all levels. We help manage that burden by developing strategies designed to mitigate risk, manage exposure, and protect companies and individuals.
Subscribe to stay informed of the latest legal news, alerts, and business trends.Subscribe


North Korea’s Economy Hit Harder Than It Has Been in Decades
North Korea is faring worse economically than over the past several decades due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. North Korea enacted harsh measures from the very beginning, seeking to halt the virus entirely before outbreaks got out of control. However, this dealt a brutal blow to its already struggling economy. Pyongyang was forced to shut down, yet its poor health care system left it vulnerable to the infectious virus.
Almost a year into the pandemic, the economic effects of lockdown measures have been realized. In North Korea, Pyongyang has locked down entire provinces, shut down foreign tourism, and limited exports and imports. Foreign tourism is one of the country’s only sources of outside income due to international sanctions. Trade with China has also suffered, dropping 75% in 2020 when compared to 2019.


Waste generation is inevitable in any factory, and Saint-Gobain Abrasives is no exception with waste coming from raw materials used in production and from packaging of various products and processes.
In aligning with Saint-Gobain’s objective of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, Saint-Gobain Abrasives Poland launched a taskforce to decrease the volume of packaging waste – reducing transport emissions generated by its collection.
To kick-start this initiative, the Coated abrasives plant in Koło invested in two pressing machines, one for paper waste, the other for plastic. These machines have helped to significanlty reduce waste volume, resulting in waste collection being reduced by a factor of 2, delivering a reduction of 50% CO2 emissions (650 kg CO2 per month).
The same initiative is now planned for the cutting and grinding wheel plant which will help in further reducing the CO2 emissions from waste collection.


Changing Filters
When you explore or think about a subject, you use some filters consciously or unconsciously. Your brain cannot absorb an infinite amount of information, and any filter you apply is aimed at making the processing of information more effective.
At the same time, a filter masks many aspects of the subject by definition. Actively
Applying Different Filters and seeing the subject differently is likely to result in surprising insights. reflective questions
Think of a challenge, an opportunity, or an experience you had in the past week.
Which filters I saw the subject through? How did the filters I consciously or unconsciously used affect my insights? Can I revisit the issue and explore it using a different filter? What would help me to proactively use multiple filters in a future event?


Scientists conducted a clinical trial and found that time-restricted eating improved measures of health and wellbeing in firefighters. The lifestyle intervention only required the firefighters to eat during a 10-hour window and did not involve skipping meals. The new findings may also have implications for shift workers, such as military personnel; health care, food service, and transportation professionals; telecommunications staff; and new parents, whose schedules often mimic shift work when caring for a new baby.


In the hustle and bustle of life, if we are not careful our relationship with God can grow strained, or even cold. These issues, if not managed and kept in proper perspective, can quickly separate us from God’s purpose in our lives.
Stress – Learn to let stress drive you to God. Stress can cause us to isolate ourselves, and we will rely on our own abilities instead of God. Time Pressures – This can cause us to neglect prayer. We make excuses because we are busy with the work of God, but we can’t forget the God of the work. Possessions – When pursuing possessions, we must ask, “Do I own them or do they own me?” We must be responsible with our possessions and use them for God’s purpose. When God blesses much, we must give equally. Poor Choices – We need to make sure we are making decisions based on the principles of God’s Word. When we make choices without God in it, we pay for it. Wrong Priorities – We must keep all things in the right perspective. Don’t sacrifice your relationship with God, your family or your own health for the “work of God.” Your priorities must constantly be realigned. God first, then your spouse, then your children, next your job and your ministry. Lack of Discipline – You are the only one who can improve you! When we are unwilling to discipline ourselves, it will hinder our spiritual development and stymie our personal growth, which will in turn affect every area of our life.
Take time and review Psalm 139 this week to let it renew you and remind you of God’s love and purpose in your life. Take time to let God search you and know your heart. Nothing can ease the pressures of life like getting into the refreshing presence of the Lord.


Reserve Bank of India outlines its plans for a CBDC ByAli RazaPRO INVESTOR Updated: 08 October 2022 DisclosureWe sometimes use affiliate links in our content, when clicking on those we might receive a commission – at no extra cost to you. By using this website you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Join Our Telegram channel to stay up to date on breaking news coverage The reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced its plans to launch a central bank digital currency (CBDC). In a 51-page note released on October 7, the bank looked into the primary motivations behind issuing an Indian CBDC. Reserve Bank of India outlines CBDC plans The document summarizes the key motivations behind issuing a CBDC in India. It highlights safety, trust, liquidity, integrity, and settlement finality as some of the key features behind a sovereign digital currency. One of the key motivations behind issuing a CBDC in India is to lower the operational costs of managing physical cash within the country. The RBI has also outlined other factors like boosting resilience and efficiency and supporting innovation in the payments system. A CBDC would also streamline cross-border payments and settlements in remote areas that do not have stable electricity connections or access to mobile network. While the RBI shows notable interest in CBDCs, the institution is still skeptical about private digital currencies, saying they pose a danger to Indian consumers because of market volatility. The RBI has also mentioned concerns about the proliferation of crypto assets, saying they will diminish the bank’s ability to regulate the monetary policy and system. The central bank sees these factors as a threat to India’s financial stability. A digital rupee has been promoted to have the same benefits as public cryptocurrencies while ensuring consumer protection and avoiding social and economic consequences. The RBI has also pointed to the differences between retail and wholesale CBDCs, with a retail CBDC serving the public sector while a wholesale CBDC serves financial institutions. According to the RBI, there could be merit in introducing the two types of CBDCs in the Indian market. The bank further noted that retailers could prefer a token-based CBDC because of its similar nature to physical cash. On the other hand, the issuance of account-based CBDCs would benefit wholesale users. CBDC will rely on blockchain technology The document has also touched on the potential technology that will be used to create the digital rupee. It highlighted centrally controlled databases and distributed ledger technologies as the options under consideration. “While crystallizing the design choices in the initial stages, the technological considerations may be kept flexible and open-ended in order to incorporate the changing needs based on the evolution of the technological aspects of CBDCs,” the note added. The node has also mentioned the role that physical currencies play in providing anonymity, finality, and universality. Therefore, according to the RBI, it would be best that a retail CBDC have anonymity for small-value transactions, just like physical cash. Related SWIFT explores the advantages of a global CBDC network Ripple adviser: New CBDC announcements are about to come CBDC is crucial for financial stability – European Central Bank Tamadoge - Play to Earn Meme Coin Our Rating Earn TAMA in Battles With Doge Pets Maximum Supply of 2 Bn, Token Burn Now Listed on OKX, Bitmart, LBank, MEXC, Uniswap Ultra Rare NFTs on OpenSea Visit Site Join Our Telegram channel to stay up to date on breaking news coverage


August 31, 2022 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
When you were in school, did you receive a career map to where you are now? Most likely, the answer would be no. Bet it would have been beneficial as you navigated down the road to your first employment opportunity.
For most of us, we never had received such a map. We received promises from our schoolteachers that we can grow up to be anything we wanted to be. Nevertheless, if you did obtain a map, most likely, it was drawn in crayon and never detailed the roadblocks that we may face along the way. Nor would it shine upon the opportunities that could be created.
A career map is often termed a career development plan. A plan created by you, and often in
conjunction with your employer for your goal setting and achieving opportunities. Think about what future opportunities we come across in life but fail to see them as such—often resulting in just ignoring the “knocking on the door.” What if we could have seen those opportunities and advance further on them? Where would we be now?
This presentation will look at creating measurable goals, known as SMART goals. These goals can be used to help you establish and redefine your current and further career potential.


A Practical Approach to Data-Driven Storytelling
Data storytelling and visualisation are two key methods of communicating with customers. They can help customers understand the value of your products and services and, for industries like insurance or finance, also their risks and exposures.
Data storytelling and visualisations are an essential part of business. However, it is more than just telling a story with numbers — it is about influencing compellingly with the correct data to create a connection and commitment with your audience and potential customers.
In this article, I take
a deep dive into data storytelling and visualisations using a practical lens by exploring what it means for the insurance industry.


Project Details Description
Project Summary Normal cardiac function requires synchronization of structural and electrical molecules within the heart. Defects affecting cardiac excitability linked to sudden cardiac death affect ½ million people, and those affecting contractile function, such as in the case of cardiomyopathy, impact another 5.7 million patients in the U.S. each year. However, often overlooked are cardiovascular (CV) phenotypes that result in both electrical and contractile dysfunction. This relationship between contractile and electrical elements is critically important to understand in the patient with congenital heart disease (CHD). There are now more adults (ACHD) living with CHD than children, and in this population the most common late manifestation of CHD is a severely complex phenotype hallmarked by both heart failure and arrhythmia. The ACHD community recognizes the importance of each of these entities, and has set forth high-priority areas of study surrounding heart failure and arrhythmia, with the goal of using models aimed at the ‘cellular keystones underlying CHD’. This proposal embraces that focus, shifting from the study of each of these late CV sequela independently, and taking a broader look at the complex CHD phenotypes that result in both electrical and contractile dysfunction. We have identified a molecule which we believe has both CV electrical and contractile consequences, thereby serving as a good foundational model to study complex phenotypes resulting in combination arrhythmia and heart failure. Ankyrins are a membrane- associated protein directly linked with targeting ion channels in myocytes, neurons and other excitable cells. In heart, ankyrins-B and –G, which function to support myocyte actin/spectrin in the cytoskeleton and function in cellular organization, transport, gating and post-translational modification, are associated with critical membrane ion channels. Canonical AnkG is required for normal NaV1.5 channel targeting in the heart. However, we have identified a novel ‘giant’ cardiac ankyrin-G isoform that we implicate is critical for normal cardiac structure, contractility and electrical conduction. Mice lacking ‘Giant AnkG’ display a dilated and thinned left ventricle with reduced systolic function, consistent with a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype. These same mice also exhibit electrical dysfunction including ventricular arrhythmia and high-degree heart block. Our new preliminary data support our central hypothesis: A single ankyrin gene produces two separate molecules- each with unique roles in cardiac structural and electrical function. We hypothesize that novel cardiac Giant AnkG functions via a unique sodium-channel independent mechanism leading to regulation myocyte structure, membrane organization and abnormal intra- and inter-cellular signaling. Ultimately, loss of function of this large gene product leads to altered myocardial contraction and defective electrical function.
Status Active Effective start/end date 4/20/20 → 3/31/23 Funding National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: $160,920.00 Fingerprint
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Simulating stiff materials in applications where deformations are either not significant or else can safely be ignored is a fundamental task across fields. Rigid body modeling has thus long remained a critical tool and is, by far, the most popular simulation strategy currently employed for modeling stiff solids. At the same time, rigid body methods continue to pose a number of well known challenges and trade-offs including intersections, instabilities, inaccuracies, and/or slow performances that grow with contact-problem complexity. In this paper we revisit the stiff body problem and present ABD, a simple and highly effective affine body dynamics framework, which significantly improves state-of-the-art for simulating stiff-body dynamics. We trace the challenges in rigid-body methods to the necessity of linearizing piecewise-rigid trajectories and subsequent constraints. ABD instead relaxes the unnecessary (and unrealistic) constraint that each body’s motion be exactly rigid with a stiff orthogonality potential, while preserving the rigid body model’s key feature of a small coordinate representation. In doing so ABD replaces piecewise linearization with piecewise linear trajectories. This, in turn, combines the best of both worlds: compact coordinates ensure small, sparse system solves, while piecewise-linear trajectories enable efficient and accurate constraint (contact and joint) evaluations. Beginning with this simple foundation, ABD preserves all guarantees of the underlying IPC model we build it upon, e.g., solution convergence, guaranteed non-intersection, and accurate frictional contact. Over a wide range and scale of simulation problems we demonstrate that ABD brings orders of magnitude performance gains (two- to three-orders on the CPU and an order more when utilizing the GPU, obtaining 10, 000× speedups) over prior IPC-based methods, while maintaining simulation quality and nonintersection of trajectories. At the same time ABD has comparable or faster timings when compared to state-ofthe-art rigid body libraries optimized for performance without guarantees, and successfully and efficiently solves challenging simulation problems where both classes of prior rigid body simulation methods fail altogether.


Embroidery in native-woven African clothing predates European imported fabric such as the lace brands. However, the aso ebi culture, more than other factors, has promoted over 50 years of Austrian-made lace in Nigeria and strengthened the people’s fashion exuberance, so suggests a tour photography and installation titled African Lace, A History of Trade, Creativity and Fashion in Nigeria
JOINTLY organised by Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and Museum of Ethnology, Vienna, Austria, the exhibition, which took off in Vienna and currently showing at National Museum, Onikan Lagos, for the next three months, is expected to move to Ibadan later in the year.
works on display during the exhibition in Lagos
The exhibition also revisits Austrian-made embroidered fabrics’ entry, popularity in Nigeria as well as the politics involved in the economics of this transatlantic trades.
Social anthropological evidences – via several photographs as old as a century or more seen over the decades – seems to suggest that the native Yoruba woven fabrics known as aso oke were the natural choice in aso ebi before the advent of imported fabrics. Apparently, lack of mechanising of these native fabrics and the inability to meet the mass demand of the aso ebi phenomenon, particularly from the period towards the independence of Nigeria, gradually gave rise to the demand for imported fabrics such as lace. Perhaps the beauty of aso oke is the native hand woven and customised characteristics. However, whatever the embroideries such brands as sanya, alari and others in the aso oke family had, these imported lace fabrics attempted to equal.
Works of Ojeikere such as Man and Wife From Ishan, Lagos (1956); Wedding of Mr and Mrs Uzi, Benin City (1960); Adegorioye’s Wedding (1964), explained the gradual rise of the imported fabrics in the aso ebi circle.
The curators of the exhibition, Austrian Barbara Plankensteiner and Director of Museums, NCMM, Nath Mayo Adediran, in their separate speeches at the opening explained the focus of the event. Adediran’s caution that the show should not be seen as promoting lace, but adding value to memory, “an attempt to build capacity and effect change,” underscored the place of museum within this context. However, given the volume transactions involved in the lace business between Nigeria and countries such as Austria, China, Korea in the past decades, observers have been questioning the economic value of this expensive culture.
Although there has been an increase in cost of aso ebi, particularly for wedding occasions, the resilience of this unique culture of social gatherings and celebration continues. Glittering large format of Opara’s works shot last year in Lagos at weddings showed that grumblings against the rising cost would not stop the aso ebi maniac. While some of the pictures showed gatherings of identical dressings in geles (head ties) and mere similarity in colours for the buba (blouse) and iro (wraparound), others still maintain the complete aso ebi outfits.
For the NCMM, it’s Director-General, Mallam Yusuf Abdallah Usman’s explanation that the show “offers insight into the society life and vibrant fashion scene of Nigeria, especially the southwest,” captured the responsibility of the government in documenting and promoting culture. The value of the lace and aso ebi synergy, he added includes “creativity, opulence, and joy of social gatherings and group celebration in Nigeria.”
Indeed, African Lace, A History of Trade, Creativity and Fashion in Nigeria is a balance visual narrative on Nigeria’s journey through the mills of embroidery: images of four-piece aso oke for male and female as well as traditional male gowns of Hausa origins on display indicated that the modern and contemporary fashion of the people are deeply indigenised.
In a highly sensitive art and culture environment such as Nigeria’s, it won’t be surprising if purists’ reactions, in the days ahead, throw the exhibition into shades of controversy. For example, the show could be seen as promoting the Austrian brands of lace, as a text at the immediate entrance of the National Museum’s art gallery informed that cheaper fabrics from China, India, Korea and India have led to the decline in demand of European brands. The Austrian products, it added, remains the better fabrics.
If such and similar issues on the role of museum arises, Adediran’s remark would have provided an answer. He stated that the materials and images of this exhibition “are products for contemplation and reflection, which offers us a rare opportunity to engage the present to question the past.” He noted that through the decades, the fashion scene has added to the indigenous art and literary languages. “Authors and writers did not spare words for it, even our own Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka wrote on Wonyosi (a brand of lace).” The history, he warned, “is the message of the exhibition and not the trade.”


Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Aerospace Community and Workforce Any shared vision of humanity’s future, whether on Earth or in outer space, must be grounded in the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Join us as we explore initiatives, resources, and partnerships in support of these values by registering to attend each of the sessions below. Part I 15 July 2020 | 12:30 – 13:45 ET
On 15 July 2020, AIAA convened an interactive panel to discuss institutional transformations that address challenges and provide opportunities for African Americans within the aerospace workforce pipeline. Experts representing government, academia, and industry highlighted examples of initiatives and resources for K-12 and youth development, undergraduate and postgraduate education, and workplace DEI programs.
This session was developed in partnership with the Aerospace Special Interest Group of the National Society of Black Engineers and featured opening remarks from Jandria Alexander, Chair of the AIAA Diversity and Inclusion Working Group
. Part II 21 July 2020 | 10:30 – 12:00 ET
On 21 July 2020, AIAA hosted an interactive session focused on discussing the experiences of women in the aerospace community. Leaders from professional engineering societies addressed the opportunities and challenges faced by their members and highlighted ongoing work toward diversity, equity, and inclusion.
This session featured opening remarks from Alex Straub, Chair of the AIAA Women of Aeronautics and Astronautics Committee, and was developed in collaboration with the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, the National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, and the Society of Women Engineers.


This Is The Deadliest Scorpion In The World
The world is filled with critters that you don't want to cross paths with, and we're not talking about wolves, bears, and other animals that can tear an adult human to pieces without breaking a sweat. No, in this context we're talking about creepy-crawlies barely the size of your palm, or smaller. Over hundreds of millions of years of evolution, these animals have developed defense mechanisms that rely not on teeth and claws, but on powerful chemicals stored in their bodies. Indeed, certain snakes, frogs, octopuses, and other animals have evolved to be able to disable a predator with a shot of venom.
One category of venomous creatures is the scorpion, a biological cousin of the spider. If you live in certain parts of the world, it's a solid bet that you'll be within feet of one at some point in your life. And if you live in certain regions of North Africa or the Middle East, you're probably going to cross paths with the deadliest scorpion of them all. Indeed, even its name includes the word "death."
You don't want to be near a deathstalker scorpion
According to American Outdoor Guide, the most venomous scorpion in the world is the deathstalker (Leiurus quinquestriatus). The animal's range includes the desert regions in North Africa and the Middle East, where it spends most of its time hiding out under rocks.
Not only is the critter the most venomous of its scorpion brethren, it also has the fastest delivery mechanism of all scorpions. According to Phys.org, high-speed cameras captured its tail delivering its stinger to its quarry at 51 inches per second. Long story short: there's no avoiding it.
Getting stung by one is not going to be a picnic. While it's unlikely to kill a healthy adult man, in children or people with certain health conditions, a deathstalker sting is a death sentence. Even if you survive, the experience is going to be excruciatingly painful.
It's difficult to say just how many people die each year, on average, from deathstalker stings, due to a variety of reasons, per Discover Magazine. However, scorpions in general account for an estimated 3,000 human fatalities annually, per Phys.org.